13 BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes for the Perfect Grilling Season

13 BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes for the Perfect Grilling Season bring together a mouthwatering collection of flavorful recipes that will elevate your grilling game to new heights. As the weather warms up and the grill comes out, there’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors than by cooking up juicy, tender chicken thighs with a smoky, charred finish. Chicken thighs are the perfect cut for grilling—they’re flavorful, juicy, and forgiving, making them an ideal choice for BBQ enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Whether you prefer a simple, classic BBQ sauce or want to explore unique marinades, spice rubs, and glazes, this list offers a variety of options to suit every taste. From sweet and tangy to spicy and bold, each recipe is designed to infuse your chicken thighs with irresistible flavors that will have your guests coming back for more.

These recipes are perfect for any summer BBQ, family cookout, or even a weeknight dinner. They offer versatility and creativity, so you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re cooking on a gas grill, charcoal, or even using a smoker, these BBQ chicken thigh recipes promise a tender and flavorful result every time.

Get ready to fire up your grill and discover some new favorites that will make this grilling season your best one yet.

Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Thighs

Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Thighs are a perfect balance of heat and zest, bringing excitement to your grilling season. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers and fresh lime juice creates a vibrant marinade that enhances the rich flavor of the chicken thighs. This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with a kick. Plus, grilling the thighs adds a delightful char that elevates the dish even further. Serve them with a side of grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the chipotle pepper, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Place the chicken thighs on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and extra lime wedges, if desired.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Sweet and spicy BBQ chicken thighs are the perfect dish for any grilling occasion. These thighs are juicy, tender, and packed with a bold flavor that balances sweetness and heat. The marinade combines brown sugar, honey, and spices, giving the chicken a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

This recipe is easy to follow, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grillers. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of marinating time, you can serve up a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Place on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 7-8 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Brush with any leftover marinade before serving for an extra glaze!

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a delicious way to spice up your grilling season! The zesty lime and fresh cilantro create a vibrant flavor that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. This recipe is super simple, making it a great option for both inexperienced cooks and seasoned grill masters.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty thighs in no time. They’re perfect for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners. Serve them with rice, salad, or fresh tortillas for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

Smoky Paprika and Garlic Chicken Thighs

This recipe for smoky paprika and garlic chicken thighs brings together rich flavors that are perfect for grilling season. The combination of smoky paprika and garlic creates a savory and aromatic profile, making the chicken juicy and irresistible. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a great choice for both seasoned grillers and kitchen novices alike.

These chicken thighs are marinated to soak in all that smoky goodness, then grilled to perfection. Serve them with your favorite sides for a meal that will impress everyone at your next BBQ. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, make sure the coals are glowing red and covered with ash.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Herb and Lemon Marinade Chicken Thighs

Looking for a dish that combines simplicity with a burst of flavor? Herb and lemon marinade chicken thighs are just what you need! The zesty lemon and fresh herbs create a refreshing and tangy taste that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. This recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers a deliciously vibrant experience with every bite.

Marinating the chicken thighs allows the flavors to seep in, ensuring each piece is filled with a delightful taste. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or cooking indoors, these chicken thighs are sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs

Teriyaki glazed chicken thighs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, making them an instant hit at any barbecue. The rich teriyaki sauce, combined with tender, juicy chicken, creates a mouthwatering dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for grilling season, offering a deliciously sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these chicken thighs will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken thighs, coating them well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Glaze the Chicken: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the remaining marinade over the chicken for added flavor.
5. Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Feta

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a bit of the Mediterranean to your grill, these Mediterranean chicken thighs with feta are perfect! Juicy, marinated chicken thighs are topped with creamy feta, briny olives, and vibrant veggies, creating a delightful mix of flavors that will impress your friends and family. This recipe is not only tasty but also simple enough for any grilling novice.

The combination of herbs and spices gives the chicken a fresh taste, while the feta adds a tangy richness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works well for any gathering. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs

Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The tangy bourbon BBQ sauce adds a rich depth, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner while being impressive enough for a weekend BBQ.

Getting these chicken thighs ready is a breeze, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. They grill up beautifully, offering a crispy exterior while remaining juicy on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these chicken thighs are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess sauce drip off.
3. Grill the Thighs: Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Glaze with Sauce: In the last few minutes of cooking, brush more BBQ sauce on the chicken to create a sticky glaze. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs!

Buffalo Chicken Thighs with Ranch

Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a crowd-pleasing treat that brings a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors. This recipe is super simple to make, making it ideal for your next backyard barbecue or casual gathering. With juicy chicken thighs coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, every bite is packed with flavor. Pair it with a cool ranch dressing for dipping, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will love.

The key to achieving that perfect buffalo flavor is letting the chicken marinate, which enhances its taste and tenderness. Plus, grilling adds a delicious smoky finish that really elevates this dish. Whether you’re a buffalo sauce lover or just looking to spice things up, these thighs are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Ranch dressing, for serving
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice if desired and serve with ranch dressing and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The juicy chicken thighs absorb the rich honey garlic marinade, resulting in tender meat that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of flavor to your summer BBQs.

The sticky glaze from the honey and garlic makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re having a backyard gathering or a cozy dinner, these chicken thighs are sure to please the crowd. Plus, they’re quick to cook, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they’re covered with white ash.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Glaze and Serve: Brush additional marinade on the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Thighs

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that perfectly showcases grilled chicken. The rich blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone at your BBQ asking for seconds.

This recipe is simple enough for beginners and packed with flavor to impress any crowd. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these tasty thighs in no time, making them a go-to choice for grilling season!

Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Thighs!

Peach BBQ Chicken Thighs

Peach BBQ Chicken Thighs are a fantastic way to bring a sweet and tangy twist to your summer grilling. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the flavors of the peach-infused barbecue sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any backyard gathering. With minimal prep time, this recipe is simple enough for beginners and satisfying for seasoned grillers alike.

The sweetness of ripe peaches harmonizes beautifully with the smoky flavors from the grill, creating a dish that will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re serving these thighs alongside fresh salads or grilled vegetables, they’re sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine the chopped peaches, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable bag. Pour the peach marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tandoori Spiced Chicken Thighs

These Tandoori spiced chicken thighs are a flavor-packed treat perfect for grilling season. Marinated in a mix of yogurt and spices, they boast a rich, smoky taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, making them great for a casual cookout or a more formal dinner.

The marination process not only adds depth of flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy and tender. With the vibrant color and tantalizing aroma, these thighs are sure to impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tandoori spice blend
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, tandoori spice blend, lemon juice, vegetable oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
4. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped cilantro and serving.

Final Thoughts:

With these 13 BBQ chicken thigh recipes, you’ve got all the inspiration you need to make the most of grilling season. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a casual dinner with family, or impressing friends with your grilling skills, these recipes will take your chicken thighs to the next level.

Feel free to experiment with the marinades, sauces, and cooking techniques to find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds. Grilling is all about having fun and enjoying great food, so don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new.

Remember, a perfectly grilled chicken thigh is not just about the recipe—it’s about the experience of sharing great food with those you love. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite sides, and get ready for a summer full of delicious BBQ chicken thighs that will make your gatherings unforgettable! Happy grilling!